The recent throne speech delivered by the king marked a significant moment in Canadian politics, as he refrained from mentioning the president by name. Instead, the king focused on his role of reading the throne speech on behalf of the government, emphasizing Canada’s independence and outlining the priorities of newly appointed Prime Minister Mark Carney. This speech, crafted by Canadian government officials, conveyed a strong message about the relationship between the U.S. and Canada, declaring that both are “sovereign nations” united by “mutual respect and common interests.”
As Canada and the U.S. engage in critical negotiations to establish a new trade and security deal, the king's speech addressed the anxieties many Canadians feel amid global changes. “Many Canadians are feeling anxious and worried about the drastically changing world around them. Fundamental change is always unsettling. Yet this moment is also an incredible opportunity,” the king stated, highlighting an “opportunity for renewal.”
Officials indicated that the throne speech's intended audience was not only Canadians but also the Trump White House. Since taking office, President Trump has provocatively suggested the idea of Canada becoming the 51st state, a notion that has caused unease among Canadians. At the same time, his unprovoked trade war has ignited a surge of national pride. Carney effectively utilized this uncertainty during his campaign, presenting himself as the leader capable of navigating Canada through these turbulent times, leveraging his experience in global finance and leadership roles at two G7 central banks.
Throughout his campaign, Carney heightened the stakes, warning that “America wants our land, our resources, our water, our country. … These are not idle threats.” He reiterated during his election night speech, “President Trump is trying to break us so that America can own us.” In a recent Oval Office meeting, Carney firmly told Trump that Canada “is not for sale and won’t be for sale, ever.” This commitment to protecting Canadian sovereignty is central to Carney’s promise to redefine the terms of the Canada-U.S. relationship, which he has declared “over.”
As the House of Commons reconvenes after a six-month break, Carney’s opening speech lays out a roadmap for transforming Canada’s economy and positioning the nation as a leader among G7 countries. The royal visit attracted significant attention, marking just the third instance in Canadian history where a royal has opened Parliament. The speech drew an audience of notable figures, including former Prime Ministers Kim Campbell, Stephen Harper, Jean Chrétien, and Justin Trudeau.
Outside the Senate building in downtown Ottawa, crowds gathered to witness the king and queen’s carriage ride. Spectators donned “Canada is not for sale” hats alongside red-and-white outfits, creating a vibrant atmosphere. However, despite the ceremonial grandeur, a recent online survey conducted by the Angus Reid Institute revealed that an overwhelming 83 percent of Canadians expressed indifference or a lack of interest in the monarch's visit. Conversely, another survey indicated a growing warmth toward the king among Canadians.
The Liberal government’s throne speech also outlined plans to enhance Canada’s military presence in the Arctic as part of its commitment to transatlantic security. The king emphasized the importance of the North, calling it “an integral part of Canada,” especially as the region faces emerging threats, implicitly referencing China and Russia. The government pledged to protect Canadians and their sovereign rights against challenges both at home and abroad.
Additionally, the Liberal government aims to strengthen border enforcement against fentanyl trafficking, a concern previously raised by President Trump during discussions with then-Prime Minister Trudeau. In March, Trump justified imposing tariffs on Canadian goods by citing the fentanyl crisis, which later influenced the limitations placed on tariffs under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Despite ongoing tensions, fentanyl seizures by U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the Canada-U.S. border account for less than 0.1 percent of total U.S. fentanyl seizures between 2022 and 2024, according to data.
